If you are like me, you are slowly coming to realize that you really need to do something about that old tax monster looming with the April 15th date quickly approaching. What you may not know is that you can actually get your taxes prepared for free!
If your household income was less than $49,000, you may be eligible to have your taxes prepared by a volunteer tax preparer in your local area. United Way's across the country are participating with Volunteer Income Tax preparation sites. Here in South Hampton Roads, you can find all the locations to have your taxes prepared for FREE at www.shreitc.com. It is easy to schedule your appointment. Just call 1-888-664-6116 or choose from one of the 14 available sites at http://www.shreitc.com/en/free-income-tax-preparation-sites.
The IRS office also offers free tax preparation help. In Norfolk the Federal Building is located at 200 Granby St. IRS offers walk-in assistance to tax payers
If you are comfortable preparing your own tax return, you can choose from the many free file sites at http://www.irs.gov/efile/article/0,,id=118986,00.html?portlet=8
Also, IRS has downloadable and printable tax forms if you choose to prepare your own paper return.
If you are a Senior, you might want to check out the many AARP sponsored tax preparation sites. The AARP Tax Aide Locator can be found at https://locator.aarp.org/vmis/sites/tax_aide_locator.jsp just type in your zip code to find the nearest location.
If you are in the Military, free tax help is available to you too. Check out the tax preparation options made available through Military One Source for military and their families: http://www.militaryonesource.com/MOS/FindInformation/Category/TaxFilingServices.aspx
OK; now there is no more reason to delay. Help is out there and available to get you connected this tax season. Remember to save a portion of that tax return for the unexpected expenses that are looming just around the corner. Preparation will keep you from devastation!
